Overview
A modern, in-depth course for mining professionals on how to acquire, interpret and apply mineralogical information to improve metallurgical performance.
This updated course expands coverage of advanced characterisation, ore variability, impurity management, and the links between mineral properties and processing outcomes. Real industrial case studies and hands-on problem solving are used throughout.
Key topics include:
- why mineralogy matters for flowsheet design, optimisation and troubleshooting
- geological context and deposit styles with processing implications
- sampling and representativity for mineralogical programs
- liberation, textures, associations, naturally floatable gangue and entrainment
- mineral chemistry, trace elements, impurity risks and economic impacts
- characterisation techniques, strengths, limitations and common pitfalls.
Who should attend
People working in mineral processing or operations who want to strengthen their understanding of how mineralogy influences processing performance, including:
- metallurgists
- geologists
- engineers
- technical professionals.
Entry requirements
No prior knowledge of mineralogy is required.
What you'll learn
- Identify mineralogical controls on recovery, grade and selectivity, including liberation and textures.
- Design characterisation plans.
- Map ore variability and domains to metallurgical responses.
- Anticipate penalties and recognise by-product value through impurity and deportment analysis.
- Translate findings into plant actions and decision-ready recommendations.
Time commitment
This is an online course that will require roughly 18 hours to complete.
- The course will run over 2 weeks. You may choose from one of two live session options to best suit your time zone:
- Session 1: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 7am–10am (Brisbane time, GMT+10)
- Session 2: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 4pm–7pm (Brisbane time, GMT+10)
Course curriculum
Assessment
There is no assessment. However, you must complete at least 75% of the course content to receive a Certificate of Completion.
Certification and accreditation
Students who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Completion to verify their skills and achievements.
Facilitators
Cost
| Applicant | Price |
|---|---|
| Individual domestic ex. GST | A$2,500 |
| Individual international (GST not payable) | A$2,500 |
| Student domestic ex. GST | A$1,250 |
| Student international (GST not payable) | A$1,250 |
See the terms and conditions (PDF, 123.12 KB).
GST is excluded from the cost
Discounts can't be used with other discounts, offers or special promotions.
Payment optionsWe accept credit cards (Visa/MasterCard) for payment, including corporate credit cards.
If you do not have access to a card, please contact our team at education@smi.uq.edu.au to discuss your options.
Contact
Sustainable Minerals Institute
For more professional development options, visit the Sustainable Minerals Institute website.